MacSeniors Exercise and Wellness Program

Overview

MacSeniors is an exercise and wellness program, offering a supervised regimen of aerobic and resistance training for individuals 55 years of age and older. Personalized programs are designed using our specialized exercise equipment based on the needs and fitness levels of each individual.

Goal

Our goal is to prolong mobility and independence by helping seniors regain and maintain cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength/endurance. Although we cannot claim to ‘add years to your life’, we hope that participants can ‘add life to their years’.

History

MacSeniors have been exercising at McMaster University for over 20 years, and there are currently over 200 healthy seniors enrolled. The program began following the completion of a research study examining the effects of long-term resistance training on dynamic strength, exercise capacity, muscle and bone. After the study, subjects in the exercise and control groups were given the opportunity to continue to exercise at McMaster, and the program expanded to include both aerobic and resistance training.

How to Join

Prior to starting the program, participants require their primary care physician to fill out our referral form and arrange for an exercise stress test. This test can be done at the McMaster University Medical Centre in the Medical Diagnostic Unit, by calling (905) 521-5021 or faxing (905) 521-2635. If the stress test is completed at another location, results are to be faxed to (905) 525-7629.

Results from the test are used to prescribe an individualized exercise program. The exercise test is repeated every three years to monitor progress and to evaluate clinical status.

Program Fees

Membership and parking fees are payable in installments of 6 or 12 months at a time. Methods of payment include: cash, cheque*, debit, and credit card (Visa, MC)

*Cheques can be postdated (for 6 or 12 month memberships) but they all have to be presented at onceExample: If you are signing up for a 6 month membership, 6 postdated cheques must be given at the initial sign up

Location

We are located in Physcial Activity Centre of Excellence in the Ivor Wynne Centre at McMaster University.

Contact Information

Please contact PACE for more information.

McMaster Physical Activity Centre of Excellence (PACE)

Ivor Wynne Centre, A114

Phone: (905) 525-9140, ext. 27223Fax: (905) 525-7629

Testimonial

“As dedicated members of the MacSenior program for twenty years, we find that the beauty of the program is that we can build strength and cardiovascular fitness in a relaxed atmosphere. We have an opportunity to spend time with like-minded people; we have conversations and share laughter, all the while involved in a vitally important exercise session.

We have seen the program develop and evolve in a remarkable way. My wife and I admire what happens here in terms of recovery and healthful living. We see the Centre as a busy and productive place, filled with many talented people. There is always encouragement and support. And we are also impressed with what these people produce in terms of research. With many opportunities to participate as subjects, we feel that we not only get a lot from the program, we’re able to give too.”

PACE Faculty/Staff

Research

About PACE

The McMaster Physical Activity Centre of Excellence (PACE) is a state-of-the-art, exercise research and training centre. Our scientists, students and staff are devoted to studying and improving health and well-being among older adults and people with chronic disease or disability. PACE activities focus on excellence and leadership in research, education, community engagement, and knowledge translation.